The Bachelor of Arts with a major in biology requires a minimum of 120 s.h., including at least 62-73 s.h. of work for the major. Students must maintain a g.p.a. of at least 2.00 in all courses for the major and in all UI courses for the major. They also must complete the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences General Education Program. The major for the Bachelor of Arts prepares students for graduate study in the biological sciences and is especially appropriate for those interested in careers in biological science education at all levels. It also provides suitable preparation for professional positions in laboratory or field research or for professional study in medicine and other health-related fields. The B.A. program is broadly based. It introduces students to key concepts in important areas of biology and, compared to the B.S. program, provides more flexibility in choosing elective courses. Students working toward a Bachelor of Arts must complete the chemistry/physics/math foundation; the biology core; one course from each of three breadth menus; one course with a laboratory; and three elective courses, which may include one course in the history or philosophy of science. Students who wish to apply transfer credit toward graduation with a major in biology should consult their biology advisor.

Pursuing a career in biology can be very rewarding and exciting. Biologists learn how living things work, how they interact with one another, and how they evolve. Biologists help us understand the natural world in which we live and issues of personal well-being and worldwide concern, such as the environment and human health. There are a range of careers that an individual can pursue with a degree in biology. Agriculture and food production Healthcare delivery and administration Biomedical research and diagnostics Biotechnology development and implementation Biofuels research and production Environmental research and policy Education